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Inauguration
John F. Kennedy was inaugurated on January 20, 1961, a cold, bright day in Washington. In addition to distinguished guests such as congressmen, senators, and former presidents, Kennedy invited 168 poets, artists, writers, and heads of major cultural institutions to attend. The invitation signaled Kennedy's desire to engage America’s cultural leaders in the new administration.
Contralto Marian Anderson sang the National Anthem and Robert Frost was the first poet ever invited to recite at an inauguration. For those present and those watching on TV, the inauguration promised a new, more prominent role for the arts. |